Ultimate Guide to Independent Travel in Argentina: Tips & Must-See Spots
Tango, barbecue, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and the end of the world—Argentina’s captivating charm unfolds like a mesmerizing scroll painting as you journey through its diverse landscapes. I was instantly smitten with Buenos Aires on my first day, not just for its breathtaking scenery but also for its rich and romantic cultural heritage.
Often referred to as the “Little Europe of South America,” Argentina seamlessly blends European influences with the vibrant spirit of South America. Despite being the only country to have transitioned from developed to developing status, there is hope that Argentina’s economy will one day regain its former glory.
📖 Itinerary:
During my 12-day adventure, I explored Buenos Aires, Iguazu, Calafate, and Ushuaia.
‼️ Detailed travel guides will follow soon.
Day 1️⃣: City tour in Buenos Aires (in order of location and distance)
– Café Tortoni (a century-old café) — Plaza de Mayo — Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires — Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace) — Puente de la Mujer (Women’s Bridge) — Obelisk — Avenida 9 de Julio — Alberto J. Armando Stadium — La Boca — El Ateneo Grand Splendid (an exquisite Greek bookstore) — Bar Sur (tango performance)
Day 2️⃣: City tour in Buenos Aires (in order of location and distance)
– Recoleta Cemetery — National Museum of Fine Arts — Teatro Colón — Plaza del Congreso — Palacio Barolo — Tango Porteño (tango performance)
Day 3️⃣: Iguazu
– Morning: Land border crossing to Brazil and Paraguay; Afternoon: Itaipu Dam; Evening: Three Borders Landmark Wheel and show
Day 4️⃣: Iguazu
– Morning: Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls; Afternoon: Argentine side of Iguazu Falls
Day 5️⃣: El Calafate
– Drive from Calafate airport to El Chaltén; Afternoon: Bonanza rock climbing
Day 6️⃣: El Chaltén
– Hiking to the three lakes
Day 7️⃣: El Chaltén
– Morning: Boat tour of Lago Desierto; Afternoon: Rafting; Evening: Horseback riding at Bonanza
Day 8️⃣: El Calafate
– Morning: Drive to Perito Moreno Glacier; Boat and boardwalk tour
Day 9️⃣: El Calafate
– Big Ice glacier trekking
Day🔟: Ushuaia
– Morning: Maritime Prison Museum; Afternoon: Penguin Island
Day 1️⃣1️⃣: Ushuaia
– Morning: Tierra del Fuego National Park; Afternoon: Boat tour to Isla de los Lobos and the lighthouse at the end of the world
Day 1️⃣2️⃣: City tour in Buenos Aires
– Morning: Free time; Afternoon: Galería Pacífico and shopping on Florida Street
‼️ Safety Tips:
While Argentina is generally safe, it’s wise to keep your bag in front of you in crowded areas and avoid displaying wealth.
💲 Currency Exchange Tips:
In February 2024, the black market exchange rate for US dollars was approximately 1:1000.
🏨 Accommodation Tips:
Buenos Aires offers a wide range of charming and affordable apartments.
🍖 Food Guide:
Due to space limitations, I will delve into the culinary delights in a subsequent guide.
